Lalbagh Ka Raja Trust Offers Prasad to 10,000 Devotees at Bhandara

Delhi, 15 September 2024 – The Lalbagh Ka Raja Trust in Delhi, overseen by Mr. Rakesh Bindal, the chairman of the trust, along with other trustees, is hosting its grand 10-day Ganesh Pooja celebration at DDA Ground, near Sant Nirankari Samagam, Burari, Delhi, feeding over 10,000 devotees through a daily Bhandara. The event running from September 7 to September 16, has drawn lakhs of visitors, making it a major cultural and spiritual highlight in the city.

The Bhandara, which serves free meals, is a key part of the trust’s mission to give back to the community. Throughout the 10 days, volunteers have been tirelessly working to ensure that every devotee receives a nourishing meal. Even the paramilitary forces and security personnel are provided meals daily. This large-scale act of service reflects the trust’s dedication to fostering a sense of togetherness and devotion.

In addition to the religious activities, the mela surrounding the event offers a wide range of entertainment options, including paid food stalls, giant wheels, and various attractions for families and children. The combination of spiritual and festive elements has turned the Ganesh Pooja into a community celebration that blends devotion with enjoyment.

“We are proud to serve 10,000 people through our Bhandara and offer a space where families can enjoy the festivities as well. We aim to make sure no one leaves without experiencing both the blessings of Ganesh and the joy of the mela,” said Mr. Rakesh Bindal, Chairman of Lalbagh Ka Raja Trust, along with other trustees.

The event also features spiritual discourses and prayers, including Hanumant Katha and Ram Katha by renowned spiritual leaders Bageshwar Maharaj and Aniruddha Maharaj. The presence of celebrities and political figures has further elevated the significance of the event.

Celebrate Ganpati Mahotsav 2024: Ram Katha by Acharya Aniruddhacharya Maharaj in Burari

New Delhi, September 14, 2024: After the successful execution of Divya Darbar by Bageshwar Maharaj, Lal Bagh Ka Raja (regd) Trust, is all set to dive into Acharya Aniruddhacharya Maharaj’s Ram Katha. Devotees from all over Delhi are joining the grand celebration filled with cultural and spiritual atmosphere.

On the 8th day of the Ganpati Mahotsav, Dandiya Nights have been organised for the visitor’s amazement, which has added special significance to the festivities.

The festivities held at the DDA Groud Burari, Delhi, will continue with a series of spiritual significant activities till 16th of September. The Mahotsav also features daily food stalls, devotional offerings and prasad distribution.

Esteemed dignitaries like Chairman Rakesh Bindal, Vice Chairman Satyabhushan Jain, Event Head Pradip Kumar Agarwal, Chief Sporson Dharmpal Singhla and Chief Secretary Anil Wadhwa were present to enrich the grandeur and spiritual fervor of the 8th Grand Vighnaharta Ganpati Mahotsav.

Visitors are encouraged to participate and indulge in the spiritual atmosphere, have live darshan and blessings from Lord Ganesh. All the arrangements are personally overseen by the Lal Bagh Ka Raja Trust to make the event a memorable spiritual experience for everyone.

ASUS bolsters its pan India retail strategy with the launch of an Exclusive Store in Chennai

Chennai, September 2024: As a step towards bolstering the brand’s retail footprint across the country, ASUS India, Taiwanese tech giant today announced the launch of an exclusive store in Chennai. The new exclusive store is spread across 220 sq. ft. and is set to host an extensive range of electronics and computer hardware, including the ASUS flagship products such as Vivobook, Zenbook, Republic of Gamers (ROG) laptops, Gaming Desktops, All-in-One Desktops, and accessories. This is the brand’s 14th store located in Chennai.

Talking about the expansion, Jignesh Bhavsar, National Sales Manager – PC & Gaming Business, ASUS India, said, “We are glad to announce the expansion of our retail footprint across the country. Tamil Nadu being an integral market for us, the inauguration of the new brand store in Chennai will play a crucial role in empowering consumers across different regions of the country with a unique experience of our latest offerings. With a thought through retail expansion approach, we will continue to create more interaction and new touchpoints for our users.”

PVR INOX and Film Heritage Foundation Honor Akkineni Nageswara Rao with 100th Anniversary Film Festival

National, 14th September, 2024: PVR INOX Limited, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibitor, is proud to announce the Akkineni Nageswara Rao Film Festival, a grand tribute to the legendary Telugu actor, Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), to mark his 100th birth anniversary. Widely known as Natasamrat, ANR was a towering figure in Indian cinema, renowned for his versatility and captivating performances that have left an indelible mark on the film industry. This three-day film festival will run from 20th to 22nd September 2024, offering fans a rare opportunity to relive the magic of ANR’s iconic films on the big screen.

In collaboration with the Film Heritage Foundation, the festival will showcase a handpicked collection of ANR’s most celebrated movies, including Devadasu, Mayabazar, Bharya Bharthalu, Gundamma Katha, Doctor Chakravarthi, Sudigundalu, Premabhishekam, Prem Nagar, and Manam. The festival will span 31 cities, allowing audiences across the country to honor ANR’s extraordinary contribution to Indian cinema.

Mr. Gautam Dutta, CEO of PVR INOX Limited, commented on the festival, saying, “We are deeply honored to celebrate the centenary of Akkineni Nageswara Rao, whose cinematic journey is nothing short of legendary. His powerful performances have transcended generations, and his films continue to inspire cinephiles across the world. This festival is our tribute to his immense legacy, and we are thrilled to partner with the Film Heritage Foundation to bring ANR’s timeless classics back to the big screen. We hope this initiative will engage both devoted fans and new audiences, offering them a chance to experience the brilliance of ANR in theatres once again.”

ANR’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, with a filmography that reflects his exceptional range as an actor—from tragic dramas to heartwarming family sagas. His roles in films like Devadasu and Mayabazar cemented his place as a cultural icon, and his dedication to cinema earned him widespread admiration and respect.

Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Filmmaker and Director, Film Heritage Foundation, also expressed his enthusiasm for the festival, stating, “Akkineni Nageswara Rao was a true titan of Indian cinema, and it is only fitting that we celebrate his centennial with this remarkable festival. Through our partnership with PVR INOX, we are ensuring that ANR’s unparalleled contributions to film are preserved and showcased for future generations. The Film Heritage Foundation is committed to restoring and reviving classic films, and this festival is a step forward in our mission to honor the legends of Indian cinema.”

Akkineni Nagarjuna states, “I am delighted that the Film Heritage Foundation is celebrating the 100th birth anniversary of my father with a festival of his landmark films across the country. He was rightly called Natasamrat for his amazing ability to play a range of roles from a saint to an alcoholic to a romantic hero in a way that has stayed in people’s hearts and minds for decades. His performance in Devadasu has been acknowledged as one of the best across all versions of the film over the years and his films like Premabhishekam, Doctor Chakravarthi and Sudigundalu are loved even today. He was a pioneer who established Annapurna Studios, laying the first foundation for the Telugu film industry in our state. We are very proud of his legacy and through this festival audiences across the country will remember an icon not just of Telugu cinema but of Indian cinema. We would like to preserve this legacy so that people will remember him for another hundred years. The entire Akkineni family would like to thank the NFDC-NFAI and PVR-Inox for partnering with us to make this festival possible.”

Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary (Films) and Managing Director, NFDC-National Film Archive Of India states, “NFDC-NFAI is deeply honoured to collaborate in commemorating the birth centenary of Shri. Akkineni Nageswara Rao, by presenting seven timeless classics, restored in 4K from prints and negatives held in the archive’s collection. This event is not just a tribute to a legendary actor but also a testament to our commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Indian cinema. By bringing these masterpieces back to the big screen, we hope to evoke a deep sense of pride and nostalgia, allowing audiences to reconnect with the golden era of our film history. Our sincere thanks go to PVR-INOX for providing the platform to share these films with the nation, to Annapurna Studios and Film Heritage Foundation for their curation and planning, and to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for funding this endeavour under the National Film Heritage Mission.”

Each film in the showcase highlights ANR’s remarkable versatility and celebrates the rich legacy of Telugu cinema. Through this festival, PVR INOX and the Film Heritage Foundation aim to rekindle admiration for ANR’s work while introducing his timeless classics to a new generation of audiences.

The Akkineni Nageswara Rao Film Festival will be hosted across 31 cities, including major hubs like Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, Gurugram, Ahmedabad and many more, allowing fans nationwide to join in the celebration of this cinematic legend.

Annapurna Finance, BII, and FinReach Sign Landmark Credit Guarantee for MSEs

14 September 2024: Annapurna Finance Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s leading Non-Banking Financial Companies and Microfinance Institutions (NBFC-MFI), has entered into a landmark partnership with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, and FinReach Solutions, a guarantee facilitation partner dedicated to enhancing credit availability to viable MSEs. This strategic alliance aims to empower India’s Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), which form the backbone of the country’s economy.

This partnership is particularly significant as it marks the first time a Development Finance Institution (DFI) has extended a credit guarantee to an NBFC-MFI in India. The agreement entails BII providing a first-of-its-kind credit guarantee to Annapurna Finance, with FinReach Solutions playing a pivotal role as the key enabler. The credit guarantee is expected to increase Annapurna Finance’s loan book by INR 100 crore, thereby enhancing its capacity to provide financial services to over 4,000 underserved MSEs, particularly in regions where traditional financial services are limited, such as Eastern India.

Mr. Gobinda Chandra Pattanaik, Managing Director of Annapurna Finance, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership with British International Investment and FinReach Solutions represents a major milestone not only for Annapurna Finance but also for the broader financial inclusion landscape in India. The introduction of BII’s credit guarantee enables us to expand our reach to underserved micro and small enterprises, empowering them with the credit they need to scale their operations and achieve sustainable growth. These businesses, often located in regions with limited access to traditional financial services, are the backbone of our economy. Providing these enterprises with the means to grow will contribute to creating a more dynamic and resilient economy, enhance local livelihoods, and support sustainable development in their communities. We are excited to see the substantial impact this partnership will have on driving inclusive economic progress.”

The credit guarantee scheme is a financial arrangement under which BII partially guarantees the repayment of retail loans extended by Annapurna Finance to MSEs. This arrangement notably reduces the lending risk for Annapurna Finance, enabling the company to extend credit more confidently to businesses that might otherwise face challenges in accessing finance. As a result, this initiative will not only promote financial inclusion by improving access to credit but also support job creation, entrepreneurship, and poverty reduction by empowering small businesses to grow and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

Mr. Gaurav Malhotra, Director and Head of Financial Services Equity at British International Investment, highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative, articulating, “The credit guarantee under our MSME Finance Guarantee program, developed in close collaboration with FinReach Solutions, is a pioneering effort designed to address the systemic challenges faced by micro and small enterprises in accessing finance. This initiative is not solely about mitigating risk for Annapurna Finance but also about creating a more inclusive financial ecosystem where underserved businesses can thrive. We are proud to partner with Annapurna Finance in this endeavour as it aligns perfectly with BII’s mission to promote sustainable and inclusive economic development. Facilitating greater access to credit allows these businesses to unlock new growth opportunities, contribute to the economy, and improve the livelihoods of countless families.

Ms. Suvalaxmi Chakraborty, Managing Director of FinReach Solutions, emphasized the broader impact of the partnership, asserting, “At FinReach Solutions, access to credit is seen as a fundamental enabler of economic empowerment, especially for micro and small enterprises that drive local economies. Our role in this partnership with Annapurna Finance and BII is to facilitate a credit guarantee program that not only addresses the immediate financial needs of these businesses but also contributes to building a more inclusive financial system in India. The innovative structure of this credit guarantee is a game-changer as it reduces the perceived risks associated with lending to smaller enterprises, allowing them to access the capital they need to grow and scale. We are confident that this program will set a new standard in the credit guarantee market, paving the way for future initiatives that will further empower underserved businesses across the country.”

The historic agreement between Annapurna Finance, British International Investment, and FinReach Solutions exemplifies the profound impact that collaborative partnerships can have on social and economic development. Annapurna Finance, deeply embedded in delivering financial services to underserved populations, is uniquely equipped to harness this credit guarantee to reach thousands of micro and small enterprises throughout India. British International Investment, with its extensive expertise in impact investing and development finance, contributes not only financial support but also strategic insight to ensure the initiative’s success. FinReach Solutions, leveraging its proficiency in credit guarantee facilitation, bridges the gap between financial institutions and underserved market segments. Collectively, these organizations are advancing beyond mere support for individual enterprises; they are fostering the development of a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable financial ecosystem

Dyson announces Badshah as Dyson OnTrac headphones Ambassador for India

INDIA, September 2024: Dyson, the global technology company, today announced renowned artist and music icon Badshah as a Dyson OnTrac™ headphones ambassador for India. This collaboration commences with the highly anticipated launch of Dyson’s first high-fidelity, audio-only headphones: the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones on 23rd September 2024.

Ahead of the India launch, from today (i.e. 12th September 2024), the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones will be available to experience in select Dyson Demo stores. Customers can now also pre-register for the product via Dyson.in.

Ankit Jain, Managing Director, Dyson India said: “Dyson has huge ambitions to disrupt both the audio category and industry – evidenced by the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones, unveiled earlier this year. These headphones deliver exceptional sound quality through a high-performance design, underpinned by over 30 years of aero-acoustic research. To celebrate the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones launch across India, it is our great pleasure to announce our first Dyson OnTrac™ headphones Ambassador, Badshah. Known to many across the country, Badshah is an industry icon, known for both his unique blend of music, high fashion and appreciation of high-performing technology. We are delighted to welcome Badshah into the Dyson family.”

India’s Dyson OnTrac™ headphones Ambassador Badshah said: “Music is my life, and I believe in the power of exceptional sound. Dyson’s commitment to pushing boundaries fits perfectly with my own artistic approach. Their products are not only technologically advanced but also visually appealing, which perfectly aligns with my aesthetics and vision.”

Dyson’s commitment to innovation and design is evident in every product it launches. With the introduction of the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones and the creative association with Badshah, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the Indian audio market.

In addition to the Dyson OnTrac™ headphones, there will be an exciting line-up of three other new Dyson technologies that are planned across categories for a phased release starting this festive season. The new line-up includes two advanced hair styling tools – the Dyson Airwrap i.d.™ Multi-Styler and Dryer, the Dyson Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer, and Dyson’s first dedicated wet cleaner – the Dyson WashG1™ wet floor cleaner.

MAHE to host 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change

Manipal, 14 September 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institute of Eminence, is set to host the 5th National Conference on Youth in Social Change on September 16-17, 2024, at its campus in Manipal, Karnataka. Since its inception in 2017, this conference has aimed to inspire students from Higher Education Institutions across India to contribute to their communities, while also celebrating the spirit of “Daan Utsav – the joy of giving week.”

This year’s conference theme, “Bridging the Gap Between Academic & Corporate Volunteering to Synergize Social Change,” will focus on how students’ volunteering efforts during their academic years can transition into impactful corporate volunteering. The event will feature prominent speakers from leading corporates, and students from across India will present posters on unique community-giving ideas, enriching the conference discussions.

Dr. Jai Madaan Unveils Siddhhi Arts: Luxury Silver Artifacts with Spiritual Focus

New Delhi ,14th September 2024 – Dr. Jai Madaan, celebrated astrologer and spiritual thought leader, has officially launched Siddhhi Arts, a high-end luxury brand specializing in handcrafted silver artifacts. Co-founded with her daughter, Aarna Jai Madan, this new venture seeks to redefine the market for luxury home décor by blending the intrinsic value of silver with ancient Indian principles of Vastu and astrology. Siddhhi Arts is not only a luxury brand but also a response to a growing demand for meaningful, investment-grade products in an under-tapped segment of the silver industry.

The luxury home décor market has seen a sharp rise in demand for products that merge aesthetic appeal with functionality and spiritual significance. Consumers are increasingly looking beyond conventional luxury items to invest in pieces that carry deeper meanings—artifacts that serve as long-term investments and offer spiritual or cultural value.

“Today’s luxury buyers are seeking more than just beauty—they want meaning, longevity, and value. Silver has historically been considered a symbol of purity and prosperity in Indian culture, and Siddhhi Arts aims to bring this legacy into modern homes with artifacts that align with spiritual principles and add tangible value to living spaces,” said Dr. Jai Madaan.

Why Silver and Why Now?

The global silver market, valued at over $25 billion, is experiencing renewed interest due to its dual role as both a precious metal and a functional material for industrial applications. Unlike gold, which is seen primarily as a financial asset, silver has a broader application in industries ranging from electronics to sustainable energy. Silver’s affordability compared to other precious metals makes it an attractive investment, particularly in markets like India, where it is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions.

In this context, Siddhhi Arts enters the market with a unique value proposition: offering artisanal silver pieces that not only serve as luxury home décor but also as enduring assets that can appreciate over time. Each piece is crafted from hallmarked silver, ensuring both authenticity and investment value.

“We are building Siddhhi Arts not just as a luxury brand but as a sustainable business model with significant growth potential. By blending quality craftsmanship with spiritual alignment, we aim to lead in a niche that bridges India’s rich cultural heritage with modern luxury. Silver, unlike other luxury materials, offers both aesthetic appeal and financial resilience. It’s a sustainable investment that balances beauty with long-term value—especially in a market where consumers increasingly seek products with lasting cultural significance and wealth preservation,” said Aarna Jai Madan, Founder of Siddhhi Arts.

The brand’s approach marries the enduring value of silver as a precious metal with its growing appeal as a sophisticated, design-oriented medium—creating a new category of luxury products that resonate on both an emotional and financial level.

With silver’s increasing role in global markets—spanning from industrial applications to investment-grade assets—Siddhhi Arts is strategically positioned to leverage this material’s versatility and growing demand. In an era where affluent buyers are prioritizing meaning, sustainability, and long-term value in their purchases, Siddhhi Arts is poised to modernize the silver sector by offering bespoke, artisanal products that not only enhance living spaces but also represent a savvy financial investment.

Fabindia Collaborates with Ministry of MSME to Empower India’s Artisanal Heritage Under the PM Vishwakarma Scheme

New Delhi | September 14, 2024: Fabindia, India’s leading lifestyle brand known for its commitment to traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design, is proud to announce its strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) under the Central Government’s PM Vishwakarma Scheme, which was launched on September 17, 2023. This initiative is aimed at supporting India’s traditional artisans, including Potters, Carpenters, Boat Maker, Weavers, Armourer, Blacksmiths, Mason, Goldsmith, Locksmith, Sculptor, Stone Breaker, Hammer and Tool Kit Maker, Cobbler, Shoesmith, Tailor, Doll & Toy Maker, Barber, Garland Maker and other skilled craftsmen, by promoting their products and expanding their market reach.

The PM Vishwakarma Scheme, a visionary program initiated by the Government of India, seeks to empower traditional artisans across the country by providing them with financial support, skill development, and marketing assistance. The collaboration between Fabindia and MoMSME is focused on enhancing the marketing development activities of artisans registered under the PM Vishwakarma scheme, enabling them to showcase their craftsmanship to a wider audience and boost their livelihoods.

Key Objectives of the Collaboration:

Market Integration: Fabindia will integrate artisan-made products into its retail network, offering them a platform to showcase and sell their goods across markets.
Capacity Building: Through training and skill development programs, Fabindia will assist artisans in honing their craftsmanship while incorporating modern design trends and technology to increase the commercial appeal of their products.
Branding & Promotion: Fabindia, with its robust marketing channels, will actively promote the products created by these artisans both online and offline, ensuring greater visibility and demand for authentic, handmade Indian crafts.
Sustainability and Preservation of Traditional Crafts: The partnership reflects brand’s ongoing commitment to preservation and fostering a deep appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage and its contribution towards artisans.

Commenting on the collaboration MoMSME and Fabindia Ltd said “The initiative is committed to preserving and promoting Indian craftsmanship and artisans by providing them with the tools, training, and platform they need to thrive in the modern marketplace. With this collaboration we are sure that it will not only empower artisans but also ensure their crafts receive the recognition and market access they deserve”

The partnership is expected to create a significant impact on the lives of artisans, helping them achieve market access and recognition for their work. Fabindia invites consumers and industry leaders to support this initiative by embracing products crafted by artisans and contributing to the growth of India’s artisanal heritage.